690+ Irish Names (With Meanings and Popularity)
- Brónach
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"sorrowful"Description:
Saint Bronach or Bronagh was a female mystic and a sixth century follower of Saint Patrick. Today, the name is most often heard in the modern form of Brona. Bronagh was a character in the Irish animated film Song of the Sea.
- Fogarty
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"exiled one"Description:
Fogarty has the Old Fogey problem.
- Kavanaugh
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"born handsome or son of Caomhan "Description:
If you're looking for an Irish last name that moves beyond Casey and Cassidy, this one is pleasant sounding and worth considering. Kavanaugh, which can also be spelled Cavanagh, Cavenagh, Kavanagh, and Cavanaugh, is one of the few traditional Irish surnames not to start with Mc or O'. Kavanagh relates to the name first Kevin or Caomhan. Early kings of Leinster bore the name Kavanaugh.
- Shamus
Origin:
Anglicized spelling of SéamusDescription:
See SEAMUS.
- Heremon
Description:
Heremon is a rare masculine name with ancient Irish origins, derived from the legendary first Milesian king of Ireland, Éremón. In Irish mythology, Éremón was one of the sons of Míl Espáine who conquered Ireland from the Tuatha Dé Danann. The name carries strong associations with leadership, nobility, and Celtic heritage. Pronounced roughly as "HER-e-mon" or "AIR-e-mon," it has remained extremely uncommon in modern usage, making it a distinctive choice. The name conveys a sense of historical significance and mythological power. For parents with Irish heritage seeking a name with deep cultural roots and regal connotations, Heremon offers an unusual option with substantial historical weight and Celtic character.
- Aydan
Origin:
Spelling variation of AidanMeaning:
"little fiery one"Description:
Aydan has been a popular alternate spellings of Aidan, though it has been declining in usage since 2008. It has also been seen as a girl's name.
- Bidelia
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"strength or exalted one"Description:
Bridget variation that's the root of the unattractive nickname Biddy. Bedelia is another spelling.
- Gibbon
Description:
Gibbon is a masculine name of English origin, derived from the Norman personal name Giboin, which combines Germanic elements meaning 'gift' and 'friend.' The name also shares its form with the primate species, creating an unexpected nature association. As a first name, Gibbon is exceedingly rare, making it an extremely distinctive choice. Historically, it has been more common as a surname, notably borne by Edward Gibbon, the celebrated 18th-century historian who wrote 'The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.' The name has an intellectual, scholarly association while maintaining a slightly unconventional sound. Parents choosing Gibbon for their son might appreciate its uniqueness and historical connections.
- O'hara
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"son of Eaghra"Description:
The O'Haras are descended from Eaghra -- pronounced and phonetically spelled Ara -- the lord of Luighne, the modern Leyney in County Sligo. As a name, this makes a satisfying new twist on Harry, and may remind people of the poet Frank O'Hara or the movie and novel, Gone with the Wind.
- Kevyn
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"handsome"Description:
Using Kevyn (or even Kevin) for a girl breathes new life into this tired boys' name.
- P'adraic
Origin:
Irish variation of PatrickDescription:
This form, common in Ireland, could create confusion.
- Roibin
Description:
Roibin is a masculine name of Irish origin, being a Gaelic variant of Robin. The name derives from the Germanic elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. In Irish contexts, Roibin (sometimes spelled Róibín) has been used as an Irish form of Robert or Robin. While not among the most common Irish names, it offers a distinctive Gaelic alternative to the more widely used Robin. The name carries connotations of brightness and distinction, reflecting its etymological roots. Roibin has remained relatively uncommon in international usage, preserving its unique cultural heritage and distinctive character.
- O'brian
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"descendant of Brian"Description:
Irish surname that refers to High King Brian Boru, also spelled O'Brien. Makes a fabulous first name.
- Banan
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"white"Description:
Unusual and attractive entry to the growing Irish name canon.
- Eachtar
Description:
Eachtar is an uncommon masculine name with Gaelic origins, primarily found in Irish and Scottish traditions. The name derives from ancient Celtic languages, where it was associated with horsemen or cavalry warriors—'each' meaning 'horse' in Old Irish. In Celtic mythology, horses held significant symbolic value, representing freedom, nobility, and power. Eachtar would thus carry connotations of these qualities. The name has remained exceedingly rare in modern usage, preserving its distinctive character and ancient heritage. Even within Celtic regions, Eachtar is considered an uncommon choice, making it particularly unique in international contexts. For parents seeking a name with authentic Celtic roots and historical depth, Eachtar offers a rare option with strong symbolic associations.
- Maloney
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"devotee of the church"Description:
Too close to baloney.
- O'connor
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"son of the hound lover"Description:
Perfect name for the child of dog enthusiasts, and much more distinctive than the trendy Connor.
- Donnan
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"small brown-haired child"Description:
This Irish saint's name makes an attractive alternative for Dylan or Donald.
- Keela
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"slender"Description:
Is Keela distinct enough from Kayla to sound fresh and new? Maybe, though its similarity to the trendy cluster of names that also includes Kaylie and Kylie and Kelly may be enough to turn you off. Keela, a relative of the less serious Keely and the male Keelan, is used in modern Ireland.
- Bradan
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"salmon"Description:
This now-popular name has spawned several different spellings. Many parents choose it solely for its style and sound, but we like the history behind this version: the bradan feasa is the "Salmon of Knowledge" in the legend of Finn McCool.